Navratri 2026: 9 Days, 9 Forms of Maa Durga & What to Eat

Navratri 2026 is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals in India, observed over nine days in honour of the nine forms of Maa Durga. Also known as Shardiya Navratri 2026, the festival brings together devotion, fasting, traditional food, puja, music and community celebrations.

From Ghatasthapana and daily prayers to Ashtami, Navami and Kanya Pujan, each day of Navratri 2026 has its own religious and cultural significance. If you are looking for Navratri 2026 dates, vrat food ideas or traditional bhog suggestions, this guide covers the nine days in a simple and practical way.

When is Navratri 2026?

According to the 2026 Shardiya Navratri calendar, Navratri 2026 will begin on Sunday, 11 October and continue until Monday, 19 October 2026. Vijayadashami or Dussehra will be celebrated on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

The exact timing of Ghatasthapana and other puja rituals can vary depending on the location and local panchang.

Navratri 2026: 9 Days Calendar

These bhog pairings are commonly mentioned in popular Navratri traditions. However, offerings can differ according to regional customs, family traditions and individual beliefs.

Navratri 2026: 9 Days, 9 Forms of Maa Durga

The nine forms of Maa Durga, collectively known as Navadurga, are worshipped during the nine days of Navratri 2026.

Day 1 – Maa Shailputri

Maa Shailputri is worshipped on Pratipada and is traditionally associated with the beginning of Navratri. She is one of the principal forms of Navadurga. Ghee is commonly mentioned as an offering on this day.

Day 2 – Maa Brahmacharini

Maa Brahmacharini represents devotion, dedication and spiritual practice. She is worshipped on the second day of Navratri. Sugar is commonly associated with her traditional bhog.

Day 3 – Maa Chandraghanta

Maa Chandraghanta is recognised by the crescent moon on her forehead and is traditionally associated with courage and grace. Kheer is a popular offering on the third day.

Day 4 – Maa Kushmanda

Maa Kushmanda is the fourth form of Durga and is associated with energy and creation. Malpua is commonly mentioned among the traditional bhog offerings associated with this day.

Day 5 – Maa Skandamata

Maa Skandamata is revered as the mother of Skanda, also known as Kartikeya. Banana is a commonly associated offering, along with fruits and milk-based foods.

Day 6 – Maa Katyayani

Maa Katyayani is traditionally depicted as a powerful warrior form of Maa Durga. Honey is commonly associated with her bhog on the sixth day of Navratri.

Day 7 – Maa Kalaratri

Maa Kalaratri is the seventh form of Navadurga and is traditionally connected with overcoming darkness and fear. Jaggery is often mentioned as an offering on this day.

Day 8 – Maa Mahagauri

Maa Mahagauri is associated with purity, peace and serenity. Coconut is commonly offered during the eighth day of Navratri.

Day 9 – Maa Siddhidatri

Maa Siddhidatri is worshipped on Navami and represents the ninth form of Navadurga. Sesame-based sweets and offerings are among the foods traditionally associated with this day.

The nine forms of Maa Durga during Navratri 2026 will be worshipped from 11 October to 19 October.

What to Eat During Navratri 2026?

Fasting is an important part of Navratri 2026 for many devotees, although fasting rules can differ between families, regions and traditions. Some people observe a complete fast, while others have one or more simple vrat meals during the day.

Here are some popular Navratri fasting food options:

• Sabudana: Can be used to prepare sabudana khichdi, vada and other light dishes.

• Kuttu: Kuttu flour is commonly used for rotis, puris and cheela.

• Singhara flour: Another popular flour used for vrat-friendly preparations.

• Samak rice: Often used as an alternative to regular rice during fasting.

• Rajgira: Can be used for rotis, laddoos and other vrat recipes.

• Makhana: Can be roasted or prepared as a light snack.

• Fruits: Bananas, apples, papaya and other fresh fruits are simple options.

• Milk and dairy: Milk, curd, paneer and suitable milk-based dishes can add variety.

• Potatoes: Commonly used in several vrat recipes.

• Dry fruits: Almonds, walnuts, cashews and raisins make convenient fasting snacks.

Foods commonly avoided during vrat may include regular grains, pulses, meat, eggs, onion, garlic and certain spices. However, fasting practices are not identical everywhere, so devotees should follow their family's established tradition.

Navratri Bhog Ideas

Planning Navratri bhog at home can be simple when traditional offerings are prepared according to the day. Some commonly followed bhog ideas include:

These Navratri prasad traditions can vary significantly by region and household. The list above should therefore be considered a commonly followed tradition rather than a universal religious rule. if you want to eat thaali then go throuh Raddison blu hotel

Ashtami & Navami During Navratri 2026

Ashtami will be observed on 18 October 2026 in the nine-day sequence and is dedicated to Maa Mahagauri. It is an important day for Durga worship and is also associated with various family traditions.

Navami falls on 19 October 2026 and is dedicated to Maa Siddhidatri.

Many families perform Kanya Pujan on Ashtami or Navami. Young girls are respectfully invited, worshipped and served food as part of the tradition. A typical Kanya Pujan meal may include poori, black chana and halwa, although exact customs can vary between families and regions.

Celebrate Navratri 2026 With Family & Friends

Beyond fasting and puja, Navratri 2026 is also a time for community celebrations, family gatherings and cultural events. Mata ki Chowki, Garba nights and Dandiya events are popular ways to celebrate the festive season with friends and family.

If you are planning a Mata ki Chowki, Garba night, Dandiya event or family celebration, choosing the right venue can make the occasion more comfortable and memorable.

You can explore event venues in Delhi NCR, banquet halls in Delhi, party venues in Noida and event venues in Greater Noida on MyBestVenue.com to find a venue that suits your guest list, event type and celebration style.

Whether you are observing a vrat at home or organising a large festive gathering, this Navratri 2026 guide can help you plan the nine days with greater ease. Keep your menu simple, follow your family's fasting traditions and celebrate the festival with devotion, family and community spirit.